The Amenfi East NPP Parliamentary Candidate refutes allegations of inciting illegal miners against the military.

The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Amenfi East, Ernest Frimpong, has vehemently denied accusations suggesting that he and Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah have sanctioned illegal mining activities and incited miners to resist military intervention.

This denial follows the circulation of a video online showing Mr. Frimpong allegedly encouraging miners to confront law enforcement officers who demand bribes from them.

However, Mr. Frimpong asserts that his remarks have been misconstrued from a two-hour discussion with artisanal small-scale miners.

In a statement issued on Saturday, June 8, 2024, Mr. Frimpong clarified that the Regional Minister stressed the importance of responsible mining practices and cautioned against illegal mining activities in restricted areas, such as forest reserves and riverbanks.

He further asserts that he encouraged miners to report any instances of extortion and harassment by individuals falsely claiming to be law enforcement officers.

Mr. Frimpong elaborated that he emphasized the importance of adhering to Ghana’s laws governing small-scale mining, assuring miners of protection when engaging in responsible practices.

He categorically denied promoting illegal activities and urged the public to dismiss the allegations, stating that they are inaccurately portrayed and misrepresented.”

Below is the statement: